FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti
For the first time since the start of the Russian invasion in 2022, Maidan Square in central Kiev has been hit by a Russian drone, raising alarm in the Ukrainian capital.
The attack occurred in the early hours of Monday morning, when explosions were heard over the city center, as Ukrainian air defense systems were activated to shoot down drones approaching the capital.
After air defense intervention, the remains of a drone were found on Maidan Square near the column of the Independence Monument, one of the most important symbols of Kiev.
Ukrainian authorities confirmed that it was a Russian Lancet-3 drone, a suicide drone designed to patrol an area and strike targets with precision.
Kiev Mayor Vitali Klitschko said the drone debris fell in the city center without causing any casualties, while citizens were urged not to leave shelters.
"The debris of the drone fell in the city center, near Maidan Square. There are no reports of casualties, but citizens should stay in shelters until the airstrike ends," Klitschko said.
The attack comes as the war in Ukraine has entered its 1,482nd day. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukrainian forces had managed to thwart a major Russian offensive that was expected to intensify in the spring.
"Our forces have managed to stop a major Russian offensive. The use of drones by Ukraine has caused huge losses in the ranks of the Russian army," Zelensky said.
On the diplomatic front, Moscow stated that US President Donald Trump has not lost interest in peace negotiations.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia remains open to dialogue.
"We remain open to the next round of talks, although the place and date have not yet been set," Peskov said.
Meanwhile in London, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned that the crisis in the Middle East should not be turned into an advantage for Russia.
"It is vital that we continue to support Ukraine and not allow the crisis to become an opportunity for Vladimir Putin," Starmer said.
On the same day, American actor Sean Penn is in Kiev for a support visit and is expected to meet with President Zelensky.
On the other hand, Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Taras Kachka stated that Ukraine could sign the European Union accession treaty in 2027, if it manages to fulfill the main conditions by 2026.
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